University of Fashion Blog

Grammy Gown Construction Techniques Revealed

At a time in history when the Time’s Up movement is taking center stage during awards season, blogging about best-and worst-dressed celebs at the Grammys seems…well…an antiquated approach to covering one of fashion’s biggest nights.

We acknowledge that a white rose was the most-worth-talking-about accessory on the red carpet at the Grammys.

And yet, historically in times of political unrest, people turn to the arts for inspiration—perhaps even a temporary break from the issues that weigh heavy on our minds day to day. So, in the spirit of inspiring our designers to continue to create the beauty we are all seeking in the world, we’ve pulled together several award season standouts and paired them with techniques we teach at the U of F, so that you too can create your own standout garments.

Ruching: Miley Cyrus in Zac Posen

Just take a look at the sleeves (if you can call the strategically ruched sheer genius on Miley’s upper arms “sleeves”) on this dress. Never mind the ruching on the bodice of this Zac Posen confection which fits Miley like a glove.

Learn how to create ruching of your own below. Try experimenting with different weights of fabric for an extra dose of inspiration.

Beading, Sequins and Embellishment: Eve in Naeem Khan

Deciding which part of Eve’s Naeem Kahn suit is most impressive is next to impossible. Is it the immaculate mitered corner on her beautifully tailored jacket? Or perhaps the insane beadwork on the pinstripes? We’re going to go with the beading.

Get this. We can show you how this couture beading is done—by hand. Take one peek at the video below to gain an appreciation for the work that went into creating Eve’s Grammy night look.

From Lady Gaga’s lace bodysuit to the plumes on Pink’s red carpet gown, music’s biggest stars were serving design details galore on Grammy night. Did you spot a specific detail and want to know how to create it? Comment below. Either we can direct you to one of our existing videos or add your request to our list of yet-to-be-posted videos. Next up? The Oscars! Will you be design detail spotting with us?

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Kara Laricks is a regular contributor to the University of Fashion. She’s also a New York based women's wear and accessories designer. As the first winner of NBC's Fashion Star, Kara has designed collections for H&M, Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue. Her masculine meets feminine line, Kara Laricks, debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2012 and her S/S 2013 collection sold exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue. Kara's designs have been featured on the Today Show and HBO's True Blood as well as covered in Women's Wear Daily and on Style.com. Kara holds Master's degrees in both Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas and in Fashion Design from the Academy of Art in San Francisco. An educator turned designer, Kara is dedicated to supporting emerging designers and inspiring others to follow where dreams lead.